Leonardo Forever

by Richard Yaxley

In the summer of 1465, fourteen-year-old Annalisa de Torriano reluctantly travels with her family to her father’s new estate near the village of Vinci. Although she misses her privileged life, and the wealthy Matteo, in magnificent Florence, Annalisa is soon entranced by the freedom the countryside offers—and by the brilliant and charming young King of the Forest, Leonardo da Vinci, who, alongside his beloved companion Dante, quickly befriends her. Mesmerised by Leo’s intelligence and beauty, an infatuated Annalisa starts to dream of a different life. But her dreams are an illusion, and as her relationship with Leo unfolds, it is Dante who will change all their lives forever.

Genres: Historical

204 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 1, 2023

About the author

I write powerful and engaging stories for all age groups. My novels are:

- Leonardo Forever (Scholastic 2023)
- Harmony (Scholastic 2021)
- A New Kind of Everything (Scholastic 2020)
- The Happiness Quest (Scholastic 2018; CBCA Notable Book for Older Readers 2019)
- This Is My Song (Scholastic 2017; ACU Book Of The Year 2019; Winner of the 2018 Prime Minister’s Literary Award for Young Adult Literature; Finalist in the 2017 Queensland Literary Awards; also published in the Czech Republic by Albatros Media)
- Joyous and Moonbeam (Scholastic 2013; Finalist in the 2014 West Australian Premier’s Awards for Young Adult Literature)
- Spring Rain (Self-published 2011)
- Drink the Air (Strictly Literary: Winner of the 2010 Queensland Premier’s Award for Young Adult Fiction)
- Bloodlines (Strictly Literary 2009)
- The Rose Leopard (University of Queensland Press 2003)
For further information on me and my work, go to http://richardwyaxley.com

Reviews

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

So refreshing to read a book appropriately written for 12-14 year olds!!! This play on Leonardo da Vinci’s early life was filled with poetic prose, detailing awe of the natural world and questions of philosophy and morality. It hit the mark in intensity and emotion felt by the characters and the tragedy of their situations, but in a comforting/safe manner perfect for younger teens. Love!

[Annaleise Byrd · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this intriguing historical fiction novel set in Italy in 1465 and featuring a teenage girl, Annalisa, who becomes infatuated with a young Leonardo da Vinci. Along with their mutual friend Dante, they enjoy a magical summer in the countryside before the weight of family expectations and a foolish mistake change everything. With a beautiful literary tone, and many historical facts and Renaissance-era literary references woven in, this thought-provoking read is perfect for mature readers aged 12+ who are interested in art and history.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really good book and had many turned and bumps in the road.
It did end quite sad, which I understand since it's real life fantasy.